Doctor Daze- part three

Ash hesitated for a second, clutching the needle tightly in his small hands. His lip trembled, but after a moment, he nodded and slowly walked over to the bed, climbing up stiffly.

Gary watched his best friend carefully, taking in the way Ash's fingers were clenching and unclenching around the syringe. The kid was scared.

Not that Gary blamed him. He knew better than anyone how much Ash hated needles.

Which is exactly why he couldn't understand why Ash had come to him of all people.

Still, he didn't question it. If Ash trusted him to do it, then Gary would make sure it was as easy as possible.

He grabbed his doctor's bag, snapping on a pair of gloves before kneeling down so he was at eye level with Ash. "Okay, buddy. I'm gonna do this nice and easy, alright?"

Ash swallowed, hugging his arms to his chest. "Okay..."

Gary kept his voice soft. "Do you know why you need the shot?"

Ash hesitated, then nodded weakly. "Mhm... Nurse Joy said it's so I don't get sick..."

Gary smiled. "That's right, buddy. It's gonna help keep you healthy." He held out his hand. "Can I see the syringe?"

Ash flinched slightly, his grip tightening around the needle. "B-But... if I give it to you... then you'll actually do it..."

Gary's expression softened. He reached out and gently took Ash's free hand, rubbing his thumb over his knuckles. "I know it's scary, Ashy."

Ash sniffled. "I hate needles, Gary..."

"I know, buddy." Gary squeezed his hand. "But remember, it's me. I promise I'll make it as quick and easy as possible."

Ash hesitated for a long moment, staring at the needle in his hand. Then, slowly, he loosened his grip and shakily handed it over.

Gary took it carefully and set it on the tray beside him. "Good job, Ashy."

Ash blinked up at him, eyes watery. "... I did good?"

Gary smiled warmly. "Of course you did, buddy."

Ash hiccuped, his little body trembling as he let out a slow breath. "O-Okay..."

Gary nodded. "Alright. Now, do you want it in your arm or your leg?"

Ash whimpered, fidgeting. "M-My arm..."

"Good choice," Gary said gently. He grabbed an alcohol wipe and unwrapped it. "Okay, I'm gonna clean the spot first. It's gonna be cold."

Ash watched nervously as Gary took his arm and carefully swiped the wipe over his upper arm. He flinched slightly but didn't pull away.

Gary looked up. "You doing okay?"

Ash gave a small nod. "Mhm..."

"Alright, buddy." Gary grabbed the syringe and held it up, checking for air bubbles before giving Ash a reassuring smile. "Remember our deal? You look at me, not the needle."

Ash immediately shut his eyes tight. "I-I don't wanna see it..."

Gary chuckled softly. "Good. That's the whole point, buddy." He placed a gentle hand on Ash's shoulder. "Okay, Ashy. Deep breath in."

Ash obeyed, sucking in a shaky breath.

"And out."

Ash exhaled.

"Good boy." Gary murmured. "Alright, count to three for me, okay?"

Ash whimpered. "O-Okay... O-One... T-Two... T-Thr—"

Before Ash could finish, Gary smoothly slipped the needle in, pressing the plunger quickly but gently.

Ash flinched and let out a small squeak, his little hands gripping the bedsheets. But just as quickly, Gary pulled the needle out, pressing a cotton ball to the injection site.

"Aaand done."

Ash gasped. "H-Huh?"

Gary smirked, placing a small bandage over the spot. "Told ya it'd be quick, buddy."

Ash's eyes were wide. "T-That's it?"

Gary grinned. "That's it."

Ash let out a long breath, his entire body slumping in relief. "O-Oh... That wasn't as bad as I thought..."

Gary ruffled his hair. "See? Told you I'd take care of you."

Ash sniffled, then suddenly launched himself forward, wrapping his little arms around Gary's neck. "T-Thank you, Gary..."

Gary hugged him back tightly, rubbing soothing circles on his back. "Anytime, buddy. Anytime."